Insight into the solidification behavior of the C101 Ni-based superalloy fabricated through vacuum lost-wax casting
摘要
This work shows the as-cast microstructure, physico-chemical, and mechanical properties of the C101 Ni-based superalloy fabricated via vacuum investment casting. The produced casting was analyzed via thermodynamic simulations, dilatometry, differential scanning calorimetry, light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, Vickers hardness, and tensile tests. The dendritic regions of the casting were characterized by a relatively homogenous microstructure, consisting of cubic-like secondary γ′ precipitates with a mean volume fraction and mean size equal to 32.91% (± 2.5%) and 0.480 μm, respectively. The secondary γ′ precipitates in the interdendritic (ID) spaces were characterized by both a higher volume fraction and mean size of 41.15% (± 2.9%) and 0.591 μm, respectively. Additionally, the eutectic γ − γ′ islands, plate-like η-Ni3Ti intermetallic phase, MC carbides, and M5B3 were also observed in the ID spaces. Incipient melting of the C101 Ni-based superalloy may occur at 1240 °C, most probably on the eutectic γ − γ′ islands. The dilatometry curve indicated a strong increase in the coefficient of thermal expansion (α) taking place above 725 °C, which related to the start of γ′ dissolution. The mean ultimate tensile strength and yield strength were equal to 1043 MPa and 922 MPa, respectively.